Kathmandu: Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari has expressed her best wishes, stating that may the light of Diwali inspire everyone to move forward on the path of truth, justice, virtue, and humanity. In a message of best wishes on the occasion of Tihar Festival-2082, she wished happiness, peace, prosperity, and continued progress to all Nepalis living at home and abroad on the auspicious occasion of the great Nepali festival of Tihar.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the former President emphasized the importance of festivals like Tihar, especially during challenging times faced by the country. She believes that such festivals can enhance the spirit of mutual harmony, tolerance, and unity among Nepalis. She expressed hope that the bright festival would inspire everyone to seek peaceful solutions to differences or animosities through dialogue, cooperation, and public consensus.
The message highlighted the cultural significance of Deusi-Bhailo programmes, which are intimately linked with Tihar and represent a purely Nepali indigenous culture. These programmes convey a message of strengthening unity and fraternity within society.
The former President also noted the various traditions associated with Tihar, which include the worship of animals closely linked to human life, such as crows, dogs, cows, and oxen, as well as the goddess Laxmi, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. Additionally, the festival encompasses the Govardhan festival representing natural resources and the practice of sisters offering Bhaitika to their brothers, along with playing Deusi-Bhailo, singing, dancing, and entertainment.
In her message, she underscored that celebrating Tihar in this manner not only highlights the interdependent relationship between nature, human life, and the animal kingdom but also deepens the mutual affection between sisters and brothers.